Six Evils

Six Evils

Chinese medicineA term used in traditional Chinese medicine for those forces of nature—cold, dampness, dryness, fire, heat, wind—which, when extreme, or when occurring out of season, can cause disease. The Six Evils are regarded as external causes of disease; this contrasts with Western thought, which views pathogens, trauma, electromechanical and biochemical forces as primary causes of disease. Each of The Six Evils can also be internal, as in internal dampness caused by excessive consumption of various beverages.

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